Transition from college to work – My Experience

Before starting my apprenticeship with Pinsent Masons, I was worried it was going to be a big transition from college to working full time whilst studying; it seemed like a lot to deal with. The simple factor of working in an office with new people, much more experienced and knowledgeable than me was nerve-wracking enough. However, from the offset I was welcomed by friendly and helpful faces, both at my induction training and when I joined my team in Leeds.

Pinsent Masons equipped me with all the skills that I would need and what to expect when starting. This included things like IT knowledge, to legal skills, teamwork and networking (which would be useful for the Christmas Meal coming up within the first few weeks).

On my first few days in the Leeds office, I was immediately accepted within the team here, I was given an introduction to everyone in the office and they were all eager to learn about the apprenticeship programme and welcome me into the team. I was also immediately immersed in the working life with a variety of tasks given to me. The culture of the Leeds office, which fully embodies the three core values of Pinsent Masons, has not differed since my first day up to the current day. I have now been here for four months (which have flown by) and they have allowed me to grow in my working skills, my legal knowledge and my confidence.

Throughout these months there have been constant opportunities for training and development. Every day there are a variety of jobs for me to do, if it is a new job, there is no hesitation giving it to me and teaching me how to do the job, even though I have only been here a few months. Looking back to my first few weeks, these opportunities are really important as I can see my growth within Pinsent Masons.

The social side of Pinsent Masons has also been great. Within my Assistant Paralegal team, there was a welcome lunch which allowed me to get to know my colleagues and feel more part of the Pinsent Masons team. Shortly afterward there was a variety of Christmas meals and parties.

Not only have I been able to learn from Pinsent Masons, on a Monday I have a study day at the University of Law. This has also been a great experience as I am still able to meet people from University studying similar courses to me and go to events that are hosted there. Along with this, I go to Manchester every other week which allows me to meet up with another apprentice, as I am the only apprentice in Leeds it is helpful for me to share experiences with someone else who has the same role as me.

This apprenticeship with Pinsent Masons has definitely been the right decision for me; I am looking forward to seeing my further growth within the rest of my 2 years here. If I was to give any advice for future applicants it would just be to apply and enjoy the process, even though the process of being interviewed many times seems daunting, it is worth it in the end.